‘Brain training’, or the goal of improved cognitive function through the regular use of computerized tests, is a multimillionpound industry, yet in our view scientific evidence to support its efficacy is lacking. Modest effects have been reported in some studies of older individuals and preschool children, and video-game players outperform non-players on some tests of visual attention. However, the widely held belief that commercially available computerized brain-training programs improve general cognitive function in the wider population in our opinion lacks empirical support. The central question is not whether performance on cognitive tests can be improved by training, but rather, whether those benefits transfer to other untrained tasks or lead to any general improvement in the level of cognitive functioning. Here we report the results of a six-week online study in which 11,430 participants trained several times each week on cognitive tasks designed to improve reasoning, memory, planning, visuospatial skills and attention. Although improvements were observed in every one of the cognitive tasks that were trained, no evidence was found for transfer effects to untrained tasks, even when those tasks were cognitively closely related.

Quebeckers and intelligence

Yankelovich asked Canadians whether or not they agree with the statement “I think my I.Q. is higher than average”, about half of Canadians thought so. There was no significant difference between agreement levels in Quebec and in the ROC.

It also asked about agreement with the statement “I probably know more things than other people”. 35% of Canadians in the ROC agreed. That number climbed to 45% among Quebeckers.